Diesel engines and AdBlue in Ireland
The fluid known as AdBlue is the trade name for Diesel Exhaust Fluid or DEF.
AdBlue is a mixture of urea and deionised water that’s stored in a separate tank in a diesel vehicle.
When the diesel engine is running, tiny amounts of AdBlue are squirted onto the exhaust gas produced, turning the NOx into nitrogen and water.
Most AdBlue tank filler spouts are situated close to the diesel filler, and usually have a blue cap.
Most modern diesel engines used in Ireland today, require the use of AdBlue additive to help reduce exhaust emissions and improve air quality. AdBlue is also known as Ad-Blue, DEF (Diesel Emissions Fluid) or Urea. It is a 32.5% aqueous solution of urea and deionised water used to reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions in the catalytic converter of many diesel engines. NOx emissions from diesel engines are a significant contributor to air pollution and are linked to a range of negative environmental and health effects. The AdBlue used in Ireland is a key component of selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems, which use a catalyst to convert NOx into nitrogen and water vapour.
The SCR system of a diesel engine works by injecting AdBlue into the exhaust gas stream, where it reacts with the NOx to form nitrogen and water vapor. The resulting nitrogen is a naturally occurring component of the air we breathe, and water vapour is harmless and dissipates quickly. By helping to reduce NOx emissions, SCR systems allow diesel engines meet increasingly stringent emissions standards and lower their environmental impact.
AdBlue is safe to handle and store as it is considered non-toxic and a biodegradable product. It is widely used in the transportation by diesel powered buses, cars, trucks and vans, in agriculture by modern farm tractors and other diesel powered equipment, as well as in power generation and other heavy-duty applications. As AdBlue is widely used and in large quantities, it is typically stored in bulk tanks and dispensed using special AdBlue nozzles and pumps, often coloured blue to distinguish them from fuel pumps. Vehicle drivers or operators must regularly check and top up AdBlue if necessary, as it is consumed during the vehicle’s operation.
AdBlue Storage
AdBlue is typically stored in plastic tanks that are made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE), a durable and chemical-resistant material, well suited for storing liquids like urea.
GF Plant Spares specialise in AdBlue storage and dispensing systems in Ireland. Our AdBlue tanks are designed for easy installation and we provide all the necessary hardware, dispensing system and fittings.
AdBlue storage tanks are suitable for outdoor use, but they should be protected from direct sunlight and extreme weather conditions. The tanks should also be located on level ground in a location where they will not be exposed to impact damage. Our AdBlue tanks and AdBlue dispensers require minimal maintenance, but it is important to keep them clean and free from contamination. AdBlue tanks should be inspected periodically for signs of damage or leaks, and any remedial action taken promptly to prevent contamination of the AdBlue additive inside.
Our range of AdBlue plastic tanks are available in a range of sizes, from small plastic drums to large bulk tanks. The capacity of the AdBlue tank will depend on its size and design, but typical capacities range from hundreds of litres to several thousand litres.
Contact us for more information about our AdBlue Equipment such as AdBlue pumps, AdBlue dispensers and AdBlue tanks for agricultural, logistics, plant machinery, transportation or passenger car applications